How much does a Trade Specialist make?
Trade Specialists handle a variety of tasks related to buying and selling goods and services. The work can range from negotiating trade deals to managing import and export regulations. Many find the job rewarding due to its global focus and financial impact.
Trade Specialists often earn between $32,000 and $136,000 per year. Most fall within the range of $41,455 to $79,273. The average yearly salary for this role is about $58,577. Several factors influence salary, including experience, location, and the specific employer. Experienced professionals and those in major trade hubs typically earn more.
What are the highest paying cities for a Trade Specialist?

-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $107,519
In Washington, DC, a trade expert can expect to work in a bustling environment, supporting key government and international trade initiatives. Working with prominent companies such as Amazon and IBM, professionals have opportunities to impact policy and trade agreements.
Find Trade Specialist jobs in Washington, DC
-
Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $79,478
Chicago offers a dynamic landscape for trade specialists, with opportunities to collaborate with companies like Boeing and McDonald's. The city's central location and major transportation hubs make it a hub for import and export activities, providing a rich environment for trade professionals.
Find Trade Specialist jobs in Chicago, IL
-
Austin, TX
Average Salary: $74,826
In Austin, the tech-driven atmosphere provides a vibrant setting for trade specialists. With major employers like Apple and Dell, individuals can engage in innovative trade practices and enjoy a growing economy.
Find Trade Specialist jobs in Austin, TX
-
Rochester, NY
Average Salary: $69,275
Rochester's rich history in manufacturing offers unique trade opportunities. Companies such as Eastman Kodak and Bausch + Lomb provide a solid foundation for trade specialists to thrive in a community focused on innovation.
Find Trade Specialist jobs in Rochester, NY
-
Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $68,861
Baltimore presents a mix of maritime and industrial trade opportunities. Working with entities like Under Armour and Black & Decker, trade specialists can leverage the city's strategic port location to influence import and export activities.
Find Trade Specialist jobs in Baltimore, MD
-
Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $64,276
Tucson's trade environment benefits from its proximity to the Mexican border, offering unique cross-border trade opportunities. With Raytheon and Freeport-McMoRan, professionals can explore diverse trade scenarios in a rapidly growing market.
Find Trade Specialist jobs in Tucson, AZ
-
Richmond, VA
Average Salary: $55,714
Richmond combines a blend of historical and modern trade opportunities. Companies such as Altria and Markel Corporation allow trade specialists to work in a city that values both tradition and innovation.
Find Trade Specialist jobs in Richmond, VA
-
Albany, NY
Average Salary: $52,329
Albany's role as the capital city provides unique opportunities in government and policy-related trade. Working with organizations like General Electric and New York State, professionals can influence key decisions affecting trade.
Find Trade Specialist jobs in Albany, NY
-
Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $52,217
Buffalo offers a unique trade setting with a focus on manufacturing and logistics. Companies such as Tops Markets and Moog Inc. provide a solid backdrop for trade specialists to engage in diverse trade operations.
Find Trade Specialist jobs in Buffalo, NY
-
Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $51,445
Phoenix presents a thriving trade scene with a focus on technology and services. With companies like Intel and Avnet, trade specialists can explore a variety of opportunities in a rapidly expanding market.
Find Trade Specialist jobs in Phoenix, AZ
What are the best companies a Trade Specialist can work for?

-
U.S. Bank
Average Salary: $112,412
U.S. Bank offers Trade Specialist jobs that focus on financial trading and market analysis. This company operates across the United States, providing services in major financial hubs such as New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.
-
Maryland Department of Transportation
Average Salary: $70,425
The Maryland Department of Transportation offers Trade Specialist positions related to logistics and transportation management. They operate throughout Maryland, with key locations in Baltimore and Annapolis.
-
Lessen
Average Salary: $69,232
Lessen provides Trade Specialist roles that involve trade compliance and market research. They are headquartered in San Francisco, with operations spreading across major cities in the United States.
-
OPWDD - Office for People with Developmental Disabilities
Average Salary: $56,998
OPWDD offers Trade Specialist jobs that focus on providing services and support for people with developmental disabilities. They operate throughout New York State, with significant presence in cities like Albany and Buffalo.
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Average Salary: $56,360
Virginia Commonwealth University offers Trade Specialist positions related to educational and trade services. They are located in Richmond, Virginia, and have partnerships across the state.
-
Corrections and Community Supervision, Department of
Average Salary: $55,443
This department offers Trade Specialist roles focused on community supervision and trade regulation. They operate throughout the state of Virginia, with offices in Richmond and other major cities.
-
University at Albany, State University of New York
Average Salary: $51,512
The University at Albany offers Trade Specialist jobs that involve academic and trade research. They are located in Albany, New York, and collaborate with various institutions across the state.
-
State of Colorado
Average Salary: $51,188
The State of Colorado provides Trade Specialist positions focused on state-level trade and regulatory services. They operate throughout Colorado, with key locations in Denver and Boulder.
-
State of Missouri
Average Salary: $50,154
The State of Missouri offers Trade Specialist roles in trade compliance and regulatory affairs. They operate across Missouri, with major offices in Jefferson City and Kansas City.
-
State of Wyoming
Average Salary: $49,963
The State of Wyoming offers Trade Specialist jobs related to state trade policies and economic development. They operate throughout Wyoming, with main offices in Cheyenne and Casper.
How to earn more as a Trade Specialist?
Becoming a Trade Specialist can lead to a rewarding career with the potential for significant earnings. Increasing your income in this field often requires a combination of experience, skills, and dedication. By focusing on key areas, Trade Specialists can enhance their market value and achieve higher salaries.
One way to boost earnings is through gaining specialized knowledge and certifications. Continuing education in trade-related fields, such as international trade laws or specific industry regulations, can make a Trade Specialist more valuable. Certifications from recognized bodies often open doors to higher-paying positions. Additionally, mastering multiple languages can also make a Trade Specialist more versatile and attractive to employers worldwide.
- Obtain relevant certifications
- Enhance language skills
- Gain experience in multiple industries
- Network with industry professionals
- Stay updated with trade policies and trends



